Santa Clara

In Santa Clara, the resting place of Cuba’s revolutionary symbol Che Guevara, life revolves around national pride. Set in the geographical center of the country, Santa Clara is where Che waged the final war against the Batista government. On the outside, it may appear as a quiet city with not much to offer in terms of entertainment. But at its core, Santa Clara is as dynamic and youthful as Cuba after the revolution. As a thriving university town, it crackles with creativity and renovation. In its major attractions, the spirit of independence still pulsates in full vigor.

With its stark presence and poignant statement, Memorial Ernesto Che Guevara anchors Plaza Che Guevara at the heart of the city. A seven-meter-high bronze statue of Che Guevara soars facing South America. Next to it is a wall embellished with the depictions of his political negotiations. Explore it with an educated eye, and you will find that the entire sculpture complex has heavy symbolism. It renders the site all the more valuable. On the mausoleum grounds, the eternal flame lit by Fidel Castro burns ever-bright, reminding visitors of Che’s vision of a united Latin America. For more details on his life and death, head to the adjacent museum. There, his memory is eternalized through countless records of his accomplishments.